Best of Phnom Penhen
Best of Phnom Penh
Best of Phnom Penhen

New Phnom Penh international airport opens on September 9

View from the sky of the Techo International Airport
The new Techo Takhmao international airport is now scheduled to open on September 9, 2025 [Credit : Phnom Penh Post]

The opening of Phnom Penh's new Techo Takhmao international airport is now scheduled for September 9, 2025, postponed from the initial July 10 date reported by some media. This announcement is raising great interest and expectations among local residents and travelers alike.

The construction of the new airport is 96% complete
The roof features an innovative screen that filters natural light and illuminates the vast terminal space

Building progress

To this day, construction of the new airport is 96% complete.
Located at 20 kilometers south of central Phnom Penh, the new airport promises to become a modern hub for local and international travelers. Bathed in natural light and powered by an on-site photovoltaic park, Techo Takhmao aspires to become one of the world's most innovative and green airports.

A response to growing air traffic

This ambitious project is designed to meet the significant increase in air traffic in Cambodia in 2024. Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), known as Pochentong, welcomed around 4.75 million passengers in 2024, marking a 19% increase on the previous year. Air cargo volumes were up 40%.

The opening of the new Techo Takhmao International Airport in September 2025 is expected to play a key part in the continued growth, as the first terminal is designed to handle up to 15 million passengers a year.
The construction of the new airport is 96% complete
The roof features an innovative screen that filters natural light and illuminates the vast terminal space
Plaza Prenium Lounge Entry
Still a few months to enjoy the cosy Plaza Premium Lounge

No simultaneous use of both airports

It is important to note that there are no plans to use both airports simultaneously, as was the case with the opening of the new Istanbul airport in 2020. Once the new airport is operational, Phnom Penh's existing airport will be closed to avoid confusion and ensure a seamless experience for travellers.

The closure of Pochentong, which is located close to residential areas, should please many local residents eager to be spared the noise and regular passage of aircraft over their homes. However, this relocation raises another question: what impact will it have on nearby shops, restaurants and hotels, whose strategic location has until now been a major asset?

Last few months to enjoy the current airport

For those who still wish to enjoy the current airport and its Plaza Premium Lounge, there are still a few months to go before closing time. It's the last chance to experience this historic airport, before the new era begins with the official inauguration of the new airport in October.